‘Tour De Fat’ Invades Fort Collins Saturday, September 1st

Have you ever been to the 'Tour De Fat' in Fort Collins? We went last year and it was a one of a kind experience.

You’ve heard of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the 'Fat Tuesday' before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent. The parades, floats and imbibing with a drink or three are all part of the celebration. The tradition of Mardi Gras has been going on in New Orleans since 1837.

Well, 'Fat Tuesday' has nothing on the 'Tour De Fat,' a celebration of cycling, taking place in Fort Collins on Saturday, September 1st. Thanks to the New Belgium Brewing Company, the 'Tour De Fat' has raised more than $2 million for local non-profits in cities across the United States in the last 12 years.

Bikes take the place of floats in Fort Collins. Parading at Civic Center Park takes the place of parading around the city like they do in New Orleans. At both events, the revelers are dressed in costumes. In Fort Collins though, you are encouraged to make your costume out of recycled materials, so anything goes. Decorate yourself and your bike and bring $5 and be part of the festivities.

Beer makes up a part of any great celebration, so there will be beer tokens on sale at the park. Music is always part of a great celebration too. This year’s musical acts include Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe and Nicki Bluhm and the Gamblers.

The parade starts at 10 a.m. with music at 11 a.m. Remember, biking and drinking don’t mix.